The Scientific Glassblowing Learning Center: Glass Saws

Glass Saws (frequently called cut-off wheels) are quite common in the glassblowing shop. This piece of equipment may be used to cut full lengths of glass tubing and rod down to a manageable size, cut angles (drip tips), remove damaged glass from an apparatus in preparation for repair, and a host of other applications.

Most cutting wheels are made with carborundum abrasives or industrial diamonds. All glass saws of this style will use a coolant, usually water, to keep the glass from fracturing due to heat build-up at the wheel/glass contact point.

Here we see an example of a typical glass saw or cut-off wheel with a diamond wheel installed. This particular saw was made by Pistorius Machine Company which, alas, went out of business sometime in 2011.

A coolant reservoir, mounted within the green framework, provides water to a pump which in turn feeds the copper tubes mounted on either side of the diamond wheel.

The water flows down onto the rotating wheel, running out to the wheel edge, cooling both the wheel and the glass being cut.

Closeup of the movable table on a glass saw

This photo shows a glass tube being cut on the movable table. Notice the glass is in contact with at least two places on the table - the bottom and back. For safety as well as cut quality, the glassware should always be firmly held against a solid backing (the table). The entire table with the glass is then brought into the saw wheel.

"Freehanding" the glass into a rotating wheel is not recommended!

Closeup of diamond wheel on a glass sale

Diamond wheels are initially expensive relative to the cost of carborundum wheels, but have the advantages of lasting much longer, retaining wheel diameter, and maintaining their cut profile.

The wheels can be manufactured with different diamond sizes, concentrations and bonds, allowing the user to tailor them for his or her specific applications.

Disclaimer: Glassblowing has inherent hazards that can result in burns, cuts, injuries or even death. While every effort has been made to convey best safety practices, the materials presented herein can not anticipate every possible risk or hazard associated with a given glassblowing activity. The reader is responsibile for assessing and mitigating any and all such hazards or risks before commencing any activity connected with his or her use of these materials. Neither the author nor ILPI assumes responsibility or liability for injuries, losses, claims or damages to the reader or other parties that may result from the use or misuse of these materials.

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